By joshua 2027: Ebonyi monarch urges supporters of political parties to embrace peaceful campaign
By Our Correspondent
A traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, HRH Eze Paul Ogodo Egbe (Mgbomeze II) of Agalegu Ishieke Autonomous Community in Ebonyi Local Government Area, has called on supporters of all political parties to embrace peace and shun divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The monarch made the appeal in a statement titled “Advice from the Palace of a Concerned Traditional Ruler to All Political Stakeholders in Ebonyi State Ahead of 2027,” expressing concern over rising political tension and growing hostility among political actors and their supporters across the state.
He specifically urged supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and other political platforms to avoid actions capable of inflaming passions or dividing communities along partisan lines.
According to him, political contests are temporary, but family bonds, communal relationships, and shared heritage remain permanent and must be protected from political interference.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, I see signs of tension in our land. I hear harsh words and perceive growing acrimony within political circles. I see our Izhi Clan, which shares one ancestry, increasingly divided along kindred lines and by unnecessary name-calling. This worries me deeply,” he said.
Eze Egbe stressed that political parties are merely vehicles for governance and should never be allowed to become instruments of hatred or division among citizens.
“Ebonyi State, our farmlands, our markets, and the future of our children constitute the real destination. Political parties are only vehicles. No party should burn down the house simply to obtain the keys,” he stated.
He further cautioned political actors and their supporters against engaging in abusive language, personal attacks, and character assassination, urging that campaigns should instead focus on policies, competence, and development-oriented ideas.
The monarch also warned that statements made during political seasons could have lasting consequences on family relationships and community harmony.
“Politics will end after the elections, but your brother, your cousin, and your in-law will remain. Do not say today what will make you ashamed to attend the same family gathering tomorrow,” he added.
Eze Egbe expressed concern over what he described as the increasing role of social media in escalating political tension, urging online commentators and influencers to act responsibly and avoid spreading inflammatory content.
He called on political leaders to demonstrate maturity and statesmanship, noting that younger generations often mirror the behaviour of their leaders.
The traditional ruler expressed optimism that the 2027 elections in Ebonyi State would be peaceful if stakeholders prioritize unity, dialogue, and issue-based engagement over hostility and division.
He prayed for peace, unity, and continued progress in the state as political activities gather momentum ahead of the elections.